Question

Why does metal heat up faster than wood? Use the word "conductor" in the answer.

A) Metal is a better conductor of heat than wood
B) Metal has a lower specific heat than wood
C) Wood reflects heat, while metal absorbs it
D) Metal has a higher density, leading to faster heating

Answer 1

Metals heat up faster than wood because they are better conductors of heat. Heat energy is transferred more quickly in metals due to the close packing of positive nuclei, while wood, having a looser molecular structure, offers slower heat transfer. This explains why metal objects like spoons feel hotter to the touch than wooden objects when exposed to the same heat source.

Step-by-step explanation:

Metals heat up faster than wood because they are better conductors of heat. When heat energy is applied to a metal, the metal's tightly packed positive nuclei easily transfer the heat throughout the material. On the other hand, wood is a poor heat conductor because its molecules are not packed as closely together, and heat transfer is slower.

For example, if you touch a metal spoon and a wooden spoon that have been sitting in a hot liquid, the metal spoon will feel hotter to the touch because it conducts heat from the liquid to your hand faster than the wooden spoon. This is why metals are often used in cooking utensils like pots and pans, while wood is used for handles that need to stay cool.